1. St Kitts and Nevis, Lesser Antilles
Why visit: blissful beaches and Caribbean culture and history
Temperature: 22°C-27°C (72°F-81°F)
Average daily budget: $250+
If beating the winter blues is top of your vacation wish-list, here’s why St Kitts and Nevis is one of the best places to travel in January.
First up, this dual-island Caribbean nation delivers laidback beach life, history and opportunities to enjoy all-out luxury in equal measure, as exemplified by Basseterre, St Kitts’ historic capital.
Enclosed by mountains and emerald hills on the southwest coast, Basseterre’s picture-perfect port boasts a bounty of boutiques and stalls selling local arts and crafts. It’s also home to the National Museum of St Kitts and a chocolate factory.
Outside town, St Kitts’ Brimstone Hill Fortress — a UNESCO World Heritage Site, no less — is one of the best-preserved forts of its era throughout the Americas.
To see more of the island, you’ll want to hop aboard the heritage Scenic Railway. Traversing lush rainforest, it offers incredible views of Mount Liamuiga and neighbouring islands.
Talking of which, two miles south of its bigger sister, Nevis has a charming, understated vibe that's long been beloved by celebrities looking for tropical tranquillity.
That said, there are plenty of affordable places to stay, and it's home to some truly beautiful beaches, among them Pinney’s, Oualie and Lover’s Beach.
If you’re feeling more energetic, you could always hike to the top of Nevis Peak.
Where to stay: we adore Oualie Beach Resort, Nevis for its cute beach cabins backed by lush gardens.
Looking for all-out luxury? Take a look at Montpelier Plantation & Beach, Nevis.